"Don’t expect it to happen overnight and keep networking"

Hometown
Bradford, West Yorkshire and I now line in Honley, near Holmfirth

What do you do?
Arts photographer and marketer (self-employed)

What was your very first role in theatre?
Assistant to director/performer Alan Gale in pantomime at the Scarborough Opera House (now closed)

What else have you done in theatre?
Backstage, lighting and marketing for Scarborough Opera House, working as a performer, arts photography and four years doing marketing for CragRats

Have you got qualifications?
HND design communications
A degree in art and design

What did you do before you worked in theatre?
I’ve also worked in hospitality, travel and casinos

What did you want to be when you grew up?
An actress

What do you do all day?
My days are all varied, that’s why I love what I do, but typically, I am either at the computer processing images, writing and designing marketing materials, emailing and general administration or, I am out photographing events and meeting people.

What’s the best thing about your job?
The fact that I get out to meet different people, that my days are varied and that I am being creative and business-minded on a daily basis

And the worst?
Accounts!

What’s your dream job in theatre?
I’ve got it, apart from acting which I would like to pick up again

Got any wise words for someone who wants to be where you are now?
Get as much hands-on experience as you can and keep practicing your art. Build up your creative and business skills and stay focussed on what you are aiming for. Don’t expect it to happen overnight and keep networking.